By Belize Live News Staff: Dangriga Police and residents of Sarawee Village are grappling with the tragic death of an eight-month-old baby boy who died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head and body.
Burial preparations are currently underway for Kevin Emmanuel Jr., whose sudden passing has left the small southern community in mourning.
Initial reports indicate that the infant was in the care of his mother on Tuesday afternoon when the incident occurred. It is alleged that the child fell down a flight of stairs while the mother was doing chores at home. By the time family members rushed the baby to the Dangriga hospital, he had already passed away.
A post-mortem examination later determined that the cause of death was asphyxia, broncho aspiration of gastric content, as a consequence of blunt force trauma to the head and body.
Chairman of Sarawee Village, Alston McLaughlyn, expressed condolences to the grieving family and used the moment to urge parents to remain vigilant.
“My sympathies go to the family, my condolences, and it is so sad that we lost a young child,” McLaughlyn said. “I want to appeal to the community for people to be more careful with their children because things could happen.”
He added that young children require constant supervision, especially infants who are unable to protect themselves.
The baby’s body was identified by his father, Kevin Emmanuel Sr., who declined to comment. The child’s mother also declined to speak.
Police investigations are ongoing. Authorities have not indicated whether any charges will be filed.
